How to Clean Up After Asbestos Removal in Devon

Are you planning on removing any asbestos from your property in Devon? If so, it is important to know how to properly clean up after the asbestos has been removed. Asbestos fibers, when inhaled, can cause serious lung diseases such as mesothelioma. Therefore, it is crucial to take necessary steps to prevent any further exposure to the asbestos fibers during the cleanup process.

Affordable Asbestos Removal Devon is an asbestos removal company located in Devon, South West England. As a company dedicated to safely removing asbestos from homes and businesses, we believe it is important to educate our customers on how to properly clean up after asbestos has been removed. This not only ensures a safe environment but also prevents any potential legal consequences due to incorrect asbestos waste disposal.

In this article, we will provide a step-by-step guide on how to clean up after asbestos removal and avoid any potential risks associated with asbestos fibers.

What is Asbestos?

Asbestos is a naturally occurring mineral that was commonly used in building materials due to its insulating and fire-resistant qualities. The use of asbestos in construction materials was widespread from the mid-1970s throughout the mid-1980s. However, after research showed that asbestos fibers posed a significant health risk, the use of asbestos in construction materials was banned in the UK.

Asbestos fibers, when inhaled, can lead to the development of mesothelioma, a rare and aggressive form of cancer. Therefore, it is crucial to take necessary steps to prevent any further exposure to asbestos fibers during the cleanup process.

The Cleanup Process

Once the asbestos has been removed, it is important to properly dispose of any waste materials containing asbestos fibers. Asbestos waste should be double-bagged in thick plastic bags labeled as asbestos waste, placed in a skip, and taken to an approved waste disposal facility by a licensed asbestos removal contractor.

Before beginning the cleanup process, it is important to ensure that the work area is sealed off from other parts of the building. This prevents the spread of asbestos fibers to other areas of the building and can be achieved by sealing any openings, such as doors and windows, with plastic sheeting and duct tape.

Preparation

Preparation is key when dealing with asbestos cleanup. Make sure you have the following equipment:

• A vacuum cleaner equipped with a HEPA filter
• Dust masks
• Protective clothing
• Sealable bags
• A wet cleaning cloth or mop and bucket

Ensure that all equipment is in good condition and well-maintained before starting the cleanup.

Ventilation

Before starting the cleanup process, it is important to ventilate the work area. This can be achieved by opening windows and doors to create a cross-draught, which allows for the dilution and removal of airborne asbestos fibers.

Wet Cleaning

Wet cleaning is an effective method for reducing the spread of asbestos fibers during the cleanup process. This involves thoroughly wetting the floor and any surfaces in the work area using a wet cleaning cloth or mop and bucket.

Vacuuming

Vacuuming is another effective method for removing asbestos fibers that may be left behind after wet cleaning. It is important to use a vacuum cleaner equipped with a HEPA filter, as this ensures that any asbestos fibers are trapped in the filter and prevented from being released back into the air.

Sweeping and Dry Cleaning

Sweeping and dry cleaning should be avoided at all costs, as these methods can cause asbestos fibers to become airborne and spread throughout the work area. If sweeping or dry cleaning is necessary, it is important to wet the area beforehand to prevent any fibers from becoming airborne.

Disposal

Once the cleanup is complete, all waste materials should be double-bagged in thick plastic bags labeled as asbestos waste, placed in a skip, and taken to an approved waste disposal facility by a licensed asbestos removal contractor. This ensures proper disposal of the waste materials and prevents potential health risks associated with asbestos fibers.

Professional Asbestos Cleaning Services

Cleaning up after asbestos removal can be a challenging and dangerous task, especially if you are not equipped with the proper tools and training. Therefore, it is highly recommended to seek professional asbestos cleaning services to ensure that the cleanup is done safely and effectively.

At Affordable Asbestos Removal Devon, we offer professional asbestos cleaning services to ensure that your property is free of any asbestos fibers after removal. Our team of trained professionals uses state-of-the-art equipment and techniques to ensure that the cleanup is done safely and effectively.

Conclusion

Proper cleanup after asbestos removal is crucial to prevent any potential health risks associated with asbestos fibers. It is important to follow the steps outlined in this guide to ensure that the cleanup is done safely and effectively.

If you need help with the removal of asbestos or cleaning up after removal, contact Affordable Asbestos Removal Devon today. We are committed to providing safe and effective asbestos removal services in Devon and surrounding areas. Call us at 01962 458066 or email us at [email protected] to schedule a consultation or learn more about our services.